Keep your heat bill down as energy costs rise this winter.

Due to spikes in energy costs, heating your home will cost more this year. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, expected increases include 54% for propane, 43% for home heating oil, 30% for natural gas and 6% for electric heating. While there’s little homeowners can do about higher energy rates, there are several ways to lower your energy usage.

Program the thermostat
Programming your thermostat automates heat savings. Set the temperature as low as is comfortable during the day. Lower the temp a few degrees more when sleeping or when you’ll be away from home for long periods of time.

Keep filters clean
Clean or replace HVAC filters at least once a month. In addition to breathing cleaner air, a clean filter means your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard and reduces the likelihood of expensive repairs.

Clean registers and baseboard heaters
Regularly vacuum dust from registers and baseboard heaters to ensure that hot air can move freely from the source into your living spaces.

Eliminate air from hot water radiators
Getting air out of the hot water radiators will help heat your home more efficiently. The process of getting rid of air in the system is called bleeding. When the heater is off and radiators are cold, start at the radiator the farthest from the boiler. Keep an old towel on hand to wipe up any water that escapes. Open the valve; when air escapes you’ll hear it hiss. Close the valve when water starts to come out. If you’re not comfortable bleeding the system, call in a professional.

Reverse ceilings fans
Heat naturally rises and ceiling fans can help move warm air back where you can feel it. In the winter, reverse the direction of ceiling fans to turn clockwise at low speed. According to Hunter Fan Company, recirculating the warm air can help save about 15% on heating costs.

Take advantage of the sun
Keep drapes and shades open on windows that face the sun to take advantage of solar heat. Close drapes and shades when the sun goes down to minimize the chill transferred through the glass.

Use exhaust fans only as long as necessary
Bath and kitchen fans should be turned off within 20 minutes after cooking or bathing to avoid unnecessary heat loss.

Seal air leaks
Use caulk, weatherstripping and foam to seal air leaks around windows, doors, electric outlets and switches.

Insulate ducts
Properly sealed and insulated ductwork can help lower your energy bills. Whether you’re installing a new duct system or maintaining and upgrading an existing system, check out Energy.gov’s how-to on minimizing energy losses in ducts.

Cozy up
Layer up with flannel shirts and wool socks. Enjoy a cup of hot cocoa or tea when relaxing.

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